Waikiki Aquarium

The Waikiki Aquarium was established in March 1904 and has continuously served the Hawaiian community as well as the many visitors to Hawai’i who enjoy the exhibits. It is the third largest aquarium in the United States and at a cost of $3 million, was renovated in May 1994. The aquarium provides a “children friendly” environment with most tanks at eye level. There are over 240 species on display including the chambered nautilus, giant clam, octopus, reef fish, and Hawaii’s State Fish the numuhumu-nukunuku-a’pua’a. The main focus is on marine life of the Hawaiian Islands and the South Pacific. The aquarium also works with the University of Hawai’i on various sea life research projects. Don’t forget to visit the special tanks at the rear of the building where they are growing live coral. When the Waikiki Aquarium first opened in 1904 it was located 100 yards closer to Waikiki. Originally, there was no admission charged because they wanted to attract riders to the trolleys that serviced the Waikiki area. The cost of the trolley ride was a nickel each direction.

Waikiki Aquarium – Hours/Tickets

The Waikiki Aquarium is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (actually closing at 5:00pm. They offer special limited hours on Thanksgiving Day and New Years Day. They are closed on Christmas Day and also the day the The Honolulu Marathon is held. The general admission is $9/adult, $4/children 13-17, $2/children 5-12, and a special discount of $6/Hawaii residents, military, students, and seniors (with ID).